NATO chief’s first visit to Canadian Arctic to focus on Russia, climate changeOTTAWA — Canada’s longstanding resistance to NATO’s involvement in the Arctic appears to be thawing amidst warming temperatures and a coinciding increase in Russian and Chinese activity in the region. Senior Canadian and NATO officials say Stoltenberg’s visit is intended to highlight that the Arctic is a security priority for Canada and the alliance, as rapid melting from climate change makes the region more accessible to friends and foes alike. The tour is noteworthy as it represents the first visit by a NATO secretary general to the Canadian Arctic since the military alliance was first founded in 1949 to protect against the Soviet Union. But the official also acknowledged the new security environment caused by climate change and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. “With Finland and Sweden coming in, they are heavy hitters, when it comes to Arctic defence,” Baines said.

Source: CBC News August 24, 2022 20:32 UTC